Things To Do
in Hallim

Hallim is a scenic coastal district on Jeju Island’s northwest shore, famed for its lava caves, palm gardens, and pristine beaches. It anchors a landscape of volcanic formations and subtropical flora around Hallim Park, Geumneung Beach, and Hyeopjae Beach. The area balances laid-back seaside vibes with easy access to nature trails and cave tours.

It serves as a convenient base for exploring Jeju’s west coast and its rugged basaltic coastlines.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Arrival in Hallim
morning
:

Arrive in Hallim and settle into your accommodation. Take a leisurely stroll along the beautiful coastline and enjoy the early morning sea breeze. Perhaps stop by a local café to savor a traditional Korean breakfast.

afternoon
:

Explore the Hallim Park, home to stunning gardens and unique botanical displays. Spend time wandering through the park's themes such as the palm tree road and the butterfly garden. Don't forget to bring your camera for the vibrant flora and fauna.

evening
:

Dine at a seaside restaurant and try fresh seafood dishes typical of the region. Enjoy the captivating sunset views over the horizon as you savor your dinner. Later, take a peaceful walk on the beach to reflect on your first day.

day 2
Jeju Stone Park Adventure
morning
:

Take a trip to Jeju Stone Park to immerse yourself in the unique geology and cultural history of the island. Engage with interactive exhibits highlighting the volcanic origins of Jeju. Marvel at the imposing stone sculptures scattered throughout the park.

afternoon
:

Relax with a picnic lunch at the park, surrounded by stunning vistas of craggy rocks and lush greenery. After lunch, embark on a guided hike through scenic trails that showcase the beauty of Jeju's landscape. Keep an eye out for local wildlife and unique plant species.

evening
:

Return to Hallim and indulge in a spa session to unwind after your adventurous day. Experience traditional Korean spa treatments and let the natural minerals rejuvenate you. Conclude your evening with a serene cup of tea at your accommodation.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant$8-12
🍽️Three-course mid-range dinner for two$25-40
🥗Vegetarian meal$10-15
🛍️Local souvenirs$5-25
🚗Taxi ride (short distance)$5-12

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Stunning west-coast scenery and beaches
  • Efficient (though limited) public transport; easy to rent a car
  • Can be crowded in peak season
  • Limited nightlife in Hallim itself; some spots require travel to Jeju City or Seogwipo
  • "안녕하세요" - Hello
  • "감사합니다" - Thank you
  • "얼마에요?" - How much is this?
  • "메뉴 추천해 주세요" - Please recommend a dish
  • "화장실 어디예요?" - Where is the bathroom?
  • "도와주세요" - Please help me

Places to Visit in Hallim

Visit one of these nice places.

Hyeopjae Beach Sunset

Clear turquoise water against white sand and black basalt rocks, perfect for golden-hour photography.

Hallim Cave Entrance & Gardens

The cave’s stalactites and the surrounding subtropical garden provide dramatic contrasts of light and texture.

Geumneung Beach & Geomundo Rock Formations

A scenic shoreline with unique basalt formations and calm sea views ideal for wide-angle shots.

Geumneung-Hyeopjae Coastal Trail

A coastal path offering sea panoramas, volcanic rock wall views, and sunset silhouettes.

Culinary Guide

Food in Hallim

Jeju cuisine highlights the island’s seafood bounty, citrus fruits, and pork, with simple preparations that let the ingredients shine.

Hallim Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Jeju Black Pork (흑돼지)

Tender, marbled pork belly grilled at local BBQ spots; great with a spicy dipping sauce and lettuce wraps.

Must-Try!

Seafood Hot Pot (해물전골)

A bubbling pot of fresh Jeju seafood, tofu, and vegetables in a clear or spicy broth.

Grilled Mackerel (고등어구이)

Salt-crusted grilled mackerel served with steamed rice and kimchi.

Hallabong Citrus Desserts

Sweet citrus desserts and drinks made from Hallabong, Jeju’s iconic orange variety.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Geumneung Market

A local market near Geumneung Beach offering fresh seafood, produce, and quick bites like twigim and hotteok.

Hyeopjae Street Food Stalls

Coastline stalls serving fried seafood, skewers, and noodle dishes with sea breeze views.

Climate Guide

Weather

Jeju’s climate is temperate with four distinct seasons. Summers are hot and humid with periodic rainfall; winters are mild compared with the Korean mainland. Spring and autumn offer comfortable temperatures and clear skies, ideal for outdoor exploration. Be prepared for sudden weather changes, especially on the coast and near the lava tubes.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Respect for Elders

Speak politely and deferentially to elders; use formal language in unfamiliar social settings.

Shoes in Homes

Remove shoes when entering homes or some temples and traditional accommodations.

Public Etiquette

Speak softly on public transport; avoid noisy behavior, and refrain from pointing with feet or using loud gestures.

Temple Etiquette

Dress modestly when visiting temples; follow local rules and photography restrictions.

Safety Guide

Safety

Common safety concerns include strong ocean currents and sneaker waves at some beaches; always heed warning signs and lifeguard instructions. When exploring lava tubes and caves, wear sturdy shoes and follow guided tours. Consider travel insurance and keep emergency numbers handy: 119 for emergency services and 112 for police.

Tipping in Hallim

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Etiquette

Tipping is not customary in Korea; you may tip at high-end establishments or tour guides if you wish, but it is not expected.

Payment Methods

Credit and debit cards are widely accepted; cash is useful for smaller shops and markets; mobile payments (Samsung Pay, Kakao Pay) are common in cities.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Late March to May brings mild temperatures and cherry blossoms; expect gentle winds and frequent showers.

Summer

Hot and humid, with strong sun; typhoon season can bring heavy rain; pack sunscreen and stay hydrated.

Autumn

Pleasant and breezy with clear skies; great visibility for photography and outdoor activities.

Winter

Mild compared to mainland Korea; occasional chilly days; rare snowfall; layering is wise.

Nightlife Guide

Hallim at Night

Hallim itself is quiet at night, with most activity focused on coastal cafés and seaside restaurants. For a livelier scene, head to Jeju City or Seogwipo, where bars, live music venues, and late-night eateries draw visitors. Expect relaxed, scenic nightlife rather than clubbing; many places close by 11 PM but some venues stay open later in peak season.

Hiking in Hallim

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Hallasan National Park Trails

Multiple trails on Jeju’s tallest mountain; Seongpanak and Eorimok are popular long routes with dramatic volcanic landscapes.

Olle Coastal Trails (west Jeju segments)

Coastal hikes along the Olle routes; scenic sea cliffs and lava rock formations near Hallim.

Airports

How to reach Hallim by plane.

Jeju International Airport (CJU)

Main gateway to Jeju Island; about a 40–60 minute drive to Hallim depending on traffic.

Getting Around

Walkability

Hallim is a compact area with accessible beaches and a few attractions, but a car or scooter is often needed to reach some sites. Walking is pleasant along coastal paths and the Hallim Park area, though some points require short drives.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Local residents

Predominantly Korean, with a growing number of domestic and international visitors.

Tourists

Seasonal influx from mainland Korea and international travelers; peak season in summer.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Baseball & Soccer

Popular team sports played in schools and leisure leagues; also watched on TV in cafés.

Water sports (snorkeling, swimming)

Coastal waters around Hyeopjae are clear for snorkeling during warm months.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic on Jeju Island is generally light outside peak tourist seasons. Renting a car is common for flexibility, and there is a limited but usable bus network. During peak season weekends, expect more traffic around popular beaches and markets; plan extra time for drives.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Hallim.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

Vegetarian options are available at some restaurants; look for bibimbap with vegetables, tofu-based dishes, and seaweed soup; request no fish stock when possible.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare on Jeju Island is well-developed, with hospitals and clinics in Jeju City and Seogwipo. Hallim has local clinics for minor issues; for emergencies, go to Jeju City’s hospitals or Seogwipo Medical Center. English assistance is more common in bigger facilities, and travel insurance is advised.

Discover South Korea

Read more in our South Korea 2025 Travel Guide.

South Korea Travel Guide